A FARMER could see his Swithland barn demolished if a planning inquiry rules that the building has broken strict rules that its only use is for agriculture.

Charles White is fighting against Charnwood Borough Council who claims that he is in fact building a home.

Mr White argues that the barn is necessary for his new business in breeding organic pigs and growing special Chinese vegetables.

The owner of Swithland Agricultural Holdings first bought the land in Main Street in 2003.

After submitting a series of planning applications, the council granted him strict permission to build a small barn for agricultural use only.

By last year, a two storey oak structure complete with slate roofing, windows, turret and buttresses measuring at 30mx15m was built.

The council issued an enforcement notice in November stating that the building did not meet the original planning conditions.

At the inquiry at Loughborough Town Hall it was heard that plans for the completed building will include cavity wall insulation, a bathroom and, the installation of three main pipes to bring in electricity, gas and water.

Giving evidence, Mr White represented by Eian Lewis, said: “This land has been and will be used for an agricultural business for agricultural purposes.

He argued that large space is needed to accommodate the heavy machinery and crop products.

He said: “If we leave the equipment outside it will rust and probably get to a stage where it will be a mess and be an eyesore on the local landscape.”

Representing the council was Douglas Edwards QC who in his cross examination asked Mr White why submitted drawings of the barn included a balcony on the first floor and a bathroom.

Mr Edwards said these are features “consistent with a residential property” and asked is it not “a bit odd” that they be included in an agricultural barn.

Mr White said: “I remember telling my architect that I didn’t want the balcony. He said it would be a nice feature but why would I need it? I thought it was a ridiculous thing to have in a barn.”

Mr White went on to defend having cavity wall insulation and windows in the barn saying that he was meeting the necessary health and safety regulations for his staff.

He said: “The windows are not unnecessary at all. We need light.”

Local resident David Lindley read out a statement on behalf of the parish community.

He said: “Our frustration is that this building is in an area designed to be a popular, attractive countryside. We need to protect this land so we can hold down the pleasures of the countryside for our future generations.”

A verdict is expected to be delivered in approximately seven weeks time.